Emerald Isle.
There is so much about Ireland that has influenced culture all over the world. Literature, music and dance come to mind. In the United States about 33 million Americans claim some Irish ancestry. These ancestors came to the U.S. as immigrants, and brought with them their heritage. In speech, dress, religion, foods and traditions they influenced the American way of life permanently.
Just as any other cultural group that is different from the main, the suffered prejudice. Irish Catholics were mocked in public schools. During the mid 1850s, the Know Nothing Movement tried to oust Irish Catholics from public office. Irish women were stereotyped as constant breeders and girls were considered to be industrious and moral. On the other hand, men were often thought of as drunk, always fighting, lazy and shiftless.
And just as any people, looking at individuals, they were just like the person on the other side of town. Normal people trying to get through life. They were just like everyone else.
Our country is one of immigrants from every other country in the world. Every single person contributes to our rich culture and heritage and they are all part of us as we are part of them.
Embrance one another and celebrate differences.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day - 2018.
Zentangle drawn on Strathmore Vellum Bristol using an olive Copic Multiliner. Shading done with colored pencils.